Dhaka, Broadcasting News Corporation: Farida Akhter, Advisor on Fisheries and Livestock, stated that tree planting is not merely an environmental initiative; it is linked to the social security and economic realities of rural society. In various countries, people have gained international recognition solely through planting trees. Citing the example of Kenya’s Nobel laureate environmental activist Wangari Maathai, she said that it is possible to uphold a commitment to environmental protection until the last moments of life. Maathai directed to be buried in a coffin made from biodegradable materials—papyrus—which serves as a unique example of environmental awareness.

The advisor made these remarks on Saturday (January 10, 2026) while delivering the keynote speech as the chief guest at the ‘One Earth Festival’ organized by the environmental organization ‘Tree Planting for 1 Taka’ at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University in Dhaka.

Regarding the Haor region, the advisor said that indiscriminate cutting of native aquatic plants like Koroch and Hijol is destroying the natural character of the Haor and the habitat of fish. Unplanned construction of embankments in the name of protecting agriculture is obstructing water flow, which is extremely harmful to fish.

Criticizing irresponsible tourism in various tourist areas including Tanguar Haor, he said that plastic, cigarette butts, and other waste thrown by tourists are causing tremendous damage to fish and aquatic biodiversity. He referred to such behavior as a ‘crime.’

On the issue of industrial pollution, the advisor mentioned that in many industrial areas including Narayanganj, effluent treatment plants (ETPs) are not being used effectively, polluting the Shitalakshya River, which impacts the entire Meghna basin. As a result, the breeding of important fish, including hilsa, is under threat.

He also expressed concern over the misuse of sonar technology in marine fishing. He said that out of nearly 235 industrial trawlers in the country, at least 70 use sonar technology, which indiscriminately catches all species of fish. This makes it impossible for many species of fish to survive.

Regarding venomous prawns, the advisor stated that it is a foreign and invasive species, which poses a serious threat to native Galda and Bagda prawns. He clarified that no approval will be given that would harm the native species, even if there is commercial pressure.

At the festival, the welcome speech was delivered by Sheikh Abdullah Yasin, President of the environmental organization ‘One Taka Tree Plantation.’ The main paper was presented by Azim Patwari, Advocate of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. In the panel discussion, speeches were given by Barrister Noor Mohammad Azami, Deputy Attorney General of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, Dr. David Dowlund, Registrar of BRAC University, Sharif Jamil, Coordinator of Waterkeepers Bangladesh, among others.